Dumbarton Bridge

Dumbarton Bridge is a masonry arch span in Northwest Washington featuring rounded arches and four buffalo sculptures along its length. It connects Dupont Circle with Georgetown across Rock Creek Park.

Construction began in 1914 and finished in 1915 with architect Glenn Brown applying Romanesque design principles. The District of Columbia Commissioners named it in 1916 after the land tract where Georgetown was founded.

The bridge displays artwork connected to Native American heritage that visitors notice while crossing. Decorated arches feature Indian head designs based on a life mask of Sioux Chief Kicking Bear.

The bridge sits on Q Street Northwest and accommodates vehicle traffic along with foot traffic. Walking across offers open views, though peak hours bring busy conditions.

The four buffalo sculptures adorning the structure are rare decorative elements in Washington bridge design. Few other spans in the area feature animal sculptures of this scale.

Location: Washington, D.C.

Inception: 1915

Architects: Glenn Brown

Architectural style: Romanesque Revival architecture

GPS coordinates: 38.91083,-77.05111

Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:09